Starting Again (A Charles Leclerc Fic)

033 : from monaco with love

Katrina settled into the warmth of Pascale's salon, surrounded by the hum of activity and the comforting presence of a few of Pascale's staff. Sofia was there too, and the two of them sat together, watching the race, feeling a sense of belonging in Pascale's cozy space. It felt different than watching races before. Her mom had passed away ten years ago, and the void of maternal comfort had never quite left her, but here with Pascale, there was a warmth that soothed her heart.

As the race continued, Pascale made a kind offer. "Would you like me to do your hair, Katrina? I've been trying out new styles, and I could use a practice doll."

Katrina smiled. "I'd love that, thank you. It'll be nice to have someone do my hair, especially since I don't have that much opportunity to get it done."

Pascale grinned, the twinkle of nostalgia in her eyes. "You know, it's nice to have someone to do this with. My children are all men, so I can do very little with their hair."

Curious, Katrina asked, "Does Lorenzo's girlfriend come here often?"

Pascale shook her head, her smile turning a little sad. "She's a very busy young lady. She's lovely, but we've never had the chance to get to know each other without my sons being around. And Arthur's girlfriends don't come around either, even though they live close by. It gets lonely sometimes. That's why I'm so happy you accepted my invitation. I used to watch races alone, and I didn't have anyone to share my worries with. Now, I have you here with me. So, thank you, Katrina."

Katrina's heart softened at Pascale's words. "I should be the one thanking you. This is all so new to me. Sure, I've watched races before, but it's different now that Charles isn't just a friend anymore."

Pascale's expression softened. "Everything multiplies when you become connected to one of them. You worry more, you care more. But my only consolation, the thing that eases the anxiety, is knowing that Charles is happy doing what he loves."

Katrina hesitated before asking, "Do you ever watch live?"

Pascale shook her head. "Oh no, dear. I only watch the one in Monaco. My heart can't take seeing my boy drive that fast in person. Unless it's a race that's crucial to his career, I try not to watch."

"I feel the same way," Katrina admitted. "Charles has invited me to watch his races live, but I'm afraid for that very reason. I overthink everything and get really anxious."

"You should watch," Pascale encouraged. "In the beginning of his career, my husband, Herve, and I watched every single race. It was hard, yes, but I did my best for his sake. It would mean a lot to Charles if you could be there, especially since you just started dating each other."

Katrina nodded thoughtfully. "I promised him I'd try to watch some races if I can get passes."

Pascale smiled knowingly. "You shouldn't worry about passes. Just ask Lorenzo or Charles to arrange it for you."

Katrina shook her head firmly. "I can't do that. Charles and I agreed that he won't arrange passes for me. He said he'd get me passes for Imola, Monaco, and Monza, and Max will get me passes for Netherlands and Austria, and Lewis promised me Silverstone. But the rest, I'll make sure I pay for myself."

Pascale looked at her with a mix of admiration and understanding. "You're really a wonderful lady. I'm happy to hear that, Katrina. But please, if my son offers again, just say yes. Charles might seem strong, but he's really a softy inside. He finds it hard to ask for help. When he says 'only if you're free' or 'if you'd like to...' it's really his way of saying, 'I need you to be there for me.' My sons are too old now to look for their maman, but they look for comfort in their significant others. In the past, that might have made me feel a little bad, but knowing you're with him now, I feel at peace."